Soledad Man Arrested on Firearm and Drug Charges After Dirt Bike Pursuit Outside of Salinas on June 22

On June 22, 2025, at about 12:51 am deputies observed a dirt bike traveling at a high rate of speed and in a reckless manner, in the area of Van Buren Avenue, Fillmore Street in Bolsa Knolls. Deputies attempted a traffic stop near Van Buren Avenue and San Juan Grade Road, but the rider failed to yield, prompting a brief pursuit of approximately a 1/4 mile. The pursuit ended when the dirt bike stalled near the intersection of San Juan Grade Road and Newlyn Street. The rider, later identified as 30-year-old Benny Joe IV Rodriguez of Soledad, fled on foot, leading deputies on a short foot pursuit. However, deputies deployed a Taser and Rodriguez taken into custody without further incident.

A search revealed Rodriguez was in possession of a loaded unregistered handgun with a high-capacity magazine tucked in his waistband. He was also found in possession of methamphetamine, heroin, and stolen property. Additionally, Rodriguez had 2 outstanding warrants – 1 felony and 1 misdemeanor. The dirt bike was confirmed to be stolen.

Rodriguez was transported to the Monterey County Jail and booked on the following charges:

• 25850(c)(6) PC Carrying a loaded unregistered firearm

• 32310(c) PC Possession of a high-capacity magazine

• 496(a) PC Possession of stolen property

• 148(a)(1) PC Resisting or obstructing a peace officer

• 2800.2(a) CVC Felony reckless evading

• 10851(a) CVC Stolen Vehicle

• 11377(a) H&S Possession of methamphetamine

• 11350 H&S Possession of heroin

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